But the scientists warned more research was needed before the technique could be used to regenerate tissue to treat conditions like heart damage and muscle-wasting diseases. The proteins could only be deactivated temporarily because otherwise they over-proliferated. RB1 helps stop cancerous tumours developing.

'Newts regenerate tissues very effectively', said Professor Helen Blau from Stanford University, California, who led the research. Scientists have long been interested in how newts and salamanders regrow their body parts. 'In contrast, mammals are pathetic. We can regenerate our livers, and that's about it. Until now it's been a mystery as to how they do it', she said.

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